Jewelry Making Resources | Fire Mountain Gems and Beads

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Secrets to Kumihimo Project 4: 10-Strand Flat Braid

Learn how to create a 10-strand flat braid using the ancient Japanese braiding technique of kumihimo in this step-by-step instructional video.

Video Length 13:41

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Ask the Experts Wire Gauge and Type Q&A

Q: I’m making wire-wrapped glass stud earrings. What gauge and wire type is the best? I’d like to use sterling silver. Would half-hard be sturdy enough for an earring back? Thank you.

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Ornament

This shimmering crystal snowflake ornament showcases Crystal Passions® vintage rose beads and white crystal pearls, creating a look both soft and radiant.

Design Idea RF4C

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Multi-Strand Necklace

Earthy and organic, this leather and shell necklace is rooted in natural beauty, with Miyuki Picasso seed beads adding a perfectly weathered touch.

Design Idea RD36

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Earrings

Sleek black onyx earrings get a playful twist with swirling silver accents and richly colored gemstone beads.

Design Idea SA2D

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Secrets to Kumihimo Project 3: 8-Strand Round Braid with Beads

Join Elaine in this video from her 9-part Kumihimo series as she adds seed beads and pearls to a braid and finishes the bracelet with decorative findings.

Design Idea RC3E

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Three-Piece Necklace Set

Bold strands of rich red coral and gleaming silver beads drape in harmony in this striking necklace set, evoking the vibrant spirit of the tropics.

Design Idea RD37

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Single-Strand Necklace

Create one-of-a-kind pendants with hammered aluminum spirals in a trio of metallic hues for a look that's both playful and sophisticated.

Design Idea RF4E

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Single-Strand Necklace, Bracelet and Earring Set

14Kt gold-filled chain and natural garnet briolettes make for a stunning necklace and earring set, complemented by a bracelet of faceted garnet cubes.

Design Idea RF48

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Ask the Experts Drill Holes Q&A

Q: What are the names of the types of drill holes for jewelry?

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Ask the Experts Stringing Q&A

Q: How do I use silk thread for necklace stringing so it won't relax and stretch?

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Ask the Experts Beading Q&A

Q: How can I keep a flat bead from turning on the head pin when I make earrings?

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Ask the Experts Glues Q&A

Q: What glue can be used when gluing cultured freshwater pearls to silver?

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Reindeer Earrings

Quick and easy to make, Crystal Passions® reindeer earrings are a charming addition to your holiday jewelry line.

Design Idea RF4B

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Ask the Experts Finishing Q&A

Q: I am struggling with finishing a necklace with a delicate single charm. It is strung on a very delicate chain, and I have no earthly idea how to finish the chain so that I can then attach an equally delicate clasp. I am assuming that super glue is out, but what are my other choices? Thanks so very much for your kind assistance!

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Gift Box

Beautiful jewelry deserves beautiful packaging. Delight friends, family and customers with a gift box topped with ribbon roses and crimson pearl druk beads.

Design Idea RK22

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Ask the Experts Beading Q&A

Q: I use Beadalon® 49-strand wire and 7-strand wire. What size crimps and wire protectors should I use on each size? Also, what size will I need if I use the 7-strand wire doubled?

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Ask the Experts Findings Q&A

Q: Are rose gold and copper interchangeable colors for findings?

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Ask the Experts Beading Q&A

Q: What needle would you recommend for a loom project that is about 5 inches (94 columns) wide and uses 11/0 Delica seed beads? I'm having to thread back through just a few columns at a time with my standard #12 needle.

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Ask the Experts Crimp Tube Sizes Q&A

Q: What is the difference between a micro, a cut and a regular crimp tube and the proper use of each one? Also, why are there fancy crimp tubes when you’re going to crimp them anyway? It seems like you'd loose the "fancy" look after crimping.

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